Jordan Henderson: Why this Liverpool star will be a top player

Jordan Henderson is backing Christian Benteke to come good at Liverpool this season

Jordan Henderson is convinced that Christian Benteke has what it takes to develop into a top striker at Liverpool.

The Belgium international has struggled to produce consistent form at Anfield since arriving at the club during the summer transfer window.

Benteke, 25, has so far scored six goals and made two assists in 20 Premier League appearances this season but has often come under fire for his displays.

However, Henderson is convinced that Benteke has what it takes to become a top player at Anfield in the coming seasons.

Speaking to the Daily Mail, Henderson said: “He has got everything to be a top striker. Everything. He is a proper number nine. He is always in the box, wanting crosses. He can finish as well.

“You can see the quality he has got in training and you can see it in games too. There is a lot to do with confidence. There is no question that he is a top striker and he will be a top, top player for Liverpool.

“But he’s only been here for a few months. I know what it is like to come to Liverpool and everybody wants something from you now rather than just accepting he is giving his all and it will click one day.

“When you come from another club to here, you don’t realise how big Liverpool is until you are in the door. It’s up to me and the other senior players to help the new boys and young lads settle.”

Benteke played 14 minutes as Liverpool were 5-4 winners at Norwich City in the Premier League at the weekend and has not scored since the end of December.

Henderson and his Liverpool team-mates are now preparing to welcome Stoke City to Anfield for Tuesday night’s crunch League Cup semi-final second leg, with the Reds leading 1-0 from the first game earlier this month.